Strictly Come Dancing contestants Victoria Pendleton, Sid Owen and Fern Britton talk to TV Times magazine as they prepare to take to the floor... Is it finally sinking in that you’re performing on Strictly? Sid: "It’s still bizarre but good fun!" Fern: "It’s thrilling that I can now say openly to the kids that I’m doing the show, and in general the reaction has been marvellous." Victoria: "Yes! We’re just starting to put a few moves together, which is daunting. It’s quite a slow process for me, to be honest." How are you getting on with your professional partners? Sid: "I wanted Ola [Jordan] as my partner all along. She’s such a sweet girl and she’s obviously good at what she does. She’s quite laid back and she told me she wanted to pair up with me, too, so we’re both happy!" Fern: "The minute we knew we were partners, Artem [Chigvintsev] and I sat down and had a very intense conversation. He’s used to being partnered with much younger people with some dance ability, so I had to reassure him that I would work as hard as possible for him and do everything he asked." Victoria: "Brendan [Cole] is fabulous. He’s upbeat and doesn’t take it all too seriously, which is good. Being an athlete and being quite strict with myself, I’m used to working with people who are telling me what to do. Compared to what I’m used to, this is much more fun!" Are you getting to grips with the costumes? Fern: "I’m not particularly interested in clothes, but I’ve got an idea that I want to talk to the costume lady about! I’ve started a little pot of Strictly memories with tiny bits of glitter or fringing that have fallen off my dress." Sid: "When I went for my fitting there were a few dodgy costumes that made me laugh, but it’s all part of Strictly!" Victoria: "I’m loving the costumes. I’ve lived my life in Lycra skin suits, tracksuit bottoms and leggings so it’s a whole new world for me. It’s really good fun." Have you had sleepless nights about the judges’ critiques? Fern: "You can easily get upset by little things, but this is an entertainment show. I’m used to criticism and the judges are very experienced dancers so what they’re saying is probably correct. I’m not given to tears and tantrums so I think I’ll be able to take it on the chin." Sid: "As long as I can learn something from them it’s fine. I might retaliate if they make personal digs, though!" Victoria: "I’m being realistic. I expect there’ll be a lot of constructive criticism coming my way, but all I can do is take it on board and try to be better."
